MUMBAI: Ganpati fever swept across Maharashtra, and News18 Lokmat made sure viewers didn’t miss a beat. With its 20-day special line-up ‘Bappa Morya Re’, the state’s No.1 news channel transformed television screens into a window to Maharashtra’s most cherished festival.
The channel’s coverage spanned it all from the crafting of eco-friendly idols to the arrival of Bappa in every mohalla, from festive markets buzzing with preparations to kitchens where traditional modaks and delicacies were being perfected. Heartfelt stories of devotees sat alongside explorations of Ganesh Chaturthi’s cultural significance, giving audiences a holistic festive experience.
Adding extra sparkle was the ‘Bappa Morya Re’ Mandal Competition, which saw pandals across Maharashtra compete with creative themes, devotional flair, and socially relevant messages woven into their decorations. The competition captured the innovative spirit of mandals, blending tradition with contemporary relevance.
The celebrations weren’t confined to the streets. At News18 Lokmat’s own office, the channel created a festive hub where leaders and stars came together to seek Bappa’s blessings. The chief minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde, and ministers including Uday Samant and Girish Mahajan joined the prayers. Adding a touch of glamour, film and TV personalities such as Mahesh Manjrekar, Siddharth Jadhav, Prasad Oak, Adinath Kothare, Sonali Khare, Milind Gunjaji, Lina Bhagwat, and Adesh Bandekar also turned up to celebrate.
The initiative was supported by a host of partners: Oxyrich (co-presenter), Pitambari Devbhakti, Reliance Industries Ltd, SBI (banking partner), Kirti Oil (celebration partner), Parasnath Speciality Clinic, Younity Energy, Society Tea, Senco Gold (jewellery partner), Brand Banao.AI, Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, and JSW Neo Steel.
With its extensive statewide coverage, star-studded celebrations, and spirited mandal contests, News18 Lokmat’s ‘Bappa Morya Re’ once again proved why it’s synonymous with Ganeshotsav in Maharashtra blending devotion, festivity, and culture into one vibrant package.